As Australias largest supplier of hydronic heating, we have been providing Australian homes with stylish, safe and comfortable hydronic heating and cooling solutions. As exclusive stockists of an extensive range of premium products, we ensure that all homes can enjoy the benefits of a low carbon, energy efficient system. We have just released an industry leading guide on Underfloor Heating, that contains information for both homeowners and installers, I believe the content within would be the perfect for many commenters on this post. If you're unsure on how to proceed with your project I recommend you take full advantage of our personalised consultation service, available for both homeowners and installers. Using the latest design software and coupled with the expertise of our Customer Service Team, you can rest easy knowing that we’ll design a bespoke solution that delivers superior comfort that is also environmentally friendly and energy efficient. If you would like a copy please email me on sophieo@huntheat.com.au, alternatively head to our blog to download a copy: Hunt Heating Blog

Gas isn't the cheap option it used to be. They are both very different heat solutions. We've got electric cable in floor heat in our concrete slab for kitchen and dining. It runs on off peak electricity. I love the heat that comes off the floor, it isn't just for my feet (although that is lovely). It heats our house nicely. We top up with a gas heater or our ducted air when needed. The hydronic system would be cheaper to run. It is a very different way of thinking about heating. Ideally you'd run it 24/7 on a thermostat. You are not heating the floor as such, but the water that runs through the cables. The theory is the water retains the heat better, so the boiler set to a thermostat, uses little energy. Hydronic systems heat at a lower temp, so it can take days till it heats the floor adequately and then the space. The thing I like about floor heating is that it retains the heat. Say one of the kids run out the door and leave it open. Yes- you get a little heat loss, but nothing like with ducted and gas- which goes straight out the door because it is airborne. The heat is retained in the building. Thermal mass heat I think they call it.

Hi Penny, Interesting question! Sounds like a unique project. If you're thinking of a hydronic ceiling heating installation, generally they work the same way as underfloor heating systems but are much more expensive to install, due to the technical nature of installing pipework in the ceiling rather than just laying it on the floor. If you're looking for a hydronic system (eg with a gas boiler) then the easiest retrofit option is to look at some wall-mounted radiators. Alternatively, you could look into some type of ducted system which is probably not too expensive to install if you can find the space in your home for the ductwork. Best of luck with the renovation!

Hi Lisa (& Lisa!), I haven't been involved with a hydronic heating installation specifically in Canberra, although I have friends of friends that have done it there. My company is based in Sydney. I've installed hydronic systems in NSW and also New Zealand (including Queenstown, and other cold regions) which have all worked very well. To answer your question, if the system is correctly designed then a hydronic in-slab system will be able to heat your whole house without the need for additional heating. Whoever you get to design the system, you should ask to see their calculations so you can be assured that they've sized the boiler and pipework correctly. Unfortunately home heating is pretty much an unregulated industry in Australia, so anyone with a plumbing license can install hydronic heating, whether they have any experience or understanding of how the systems work or not.